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He accused National, a coalition partner, of contradicting itself on the treaty.

"The Prime Minister says National acknowledges the status of tangata whenua and recognises the treaty as the founding document of this nation, but his caucus deems it 'not necessary' to allow any MP to pledge to uphold the treaty in their work on behalf of all New Zealanders."

At present, New Zealanders swear an oath of allegiance to the Queen. Maori, Green and Mana MPs have previously attempted to include the treaty when swearing in as MPs but have been told to start again by the Speaker.

The Maori Party felt the bill, sponsored by MP Te Ururoa Flavell, was a small but symbolic step towards recognising the treaty.

Dr Sharples said National had made good progress on settling historic treaty claims. But the party appeared to be shifting its position due to pressure from a small minority which promoted discontent over the treaty and Maori issues.

"Their opposition to my Private Member's Bill is a disturbing move, which we might have expected from former leader Don Brash, or former Act MP Muriel Newman and her Centre for Political Claptrap which wants to 'abolish the Treaty'."